The Many Faces of Dependency in Old Age [Paperback]

Margret M. Baltes (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 28, 1996

Margret Baltes, a major researcher in gerontology, challenges the view that dependence is a negative and unnecessary consequence of aging. In this important volume, she presents her theory of learned dependency based on twenty years of research, which holds that dependency plays an important role in successful aging and is a resourceful adaptation to aging losses. This book attempts to correct the bias toward the virtues of independence over the vicissitudes of dependence, a predominantly North American view. It stresses that dependencies are not always dysfunctions, representing loss. Baltes also incorporates European, Japanese and feminist ideas about juxtaposing individuality and connectedness in the mature adult.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"...readers will find a powerful framework within which one could conceivably analyze and study virtually any behavior...Baltes leaves few questions unanswered...Baltes brings us to a clear understanding of dependency." Margaret Vaughan, American Scientist

"A major contribution to the field of social gerontology. Includes an important methodological framework to conduct future intervention work, guidelines for social policy issues, and theoretical and conceptual issues regarding the adaptivity of dependence and independence as we grow older." Fredda Blanchard Fields

"...Balte's book is filled with descriptions of a number of field studies." American

Book Description

Challenging the view that dependence is a negative and unnecessary consequence of aging, this text presents a theory which holds that dependency plays an important role in successful aging, and is a resourceful adaptation to aging losses.

Product Details

• Paperback: 204 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press (July 28, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 052149804X
• ISBN-13: 978-0521498043
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,001,191 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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